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Roberto Martinez hails the ability of Everton's young players

The Spaniard was impressed with his inexperienced defence against West Brom, despite their first half difficulties.

The Toffees won by three goals to two at West Bromwich Albion on Monday night, despite being 2-0 down early on in the second half, and seemingly with their backs to the wall.

Goals from Arouna Kone and Romelu Lukaku, who grabbed a brace, eventually helped to overturn a performance that was at one point looking rather dismal from Everton's point of view.

And although it was the team's attacking assets that prevented a disappointing night, Roberto Martinez has moved to praise his make-shift defensive core including Brendan Galloway, Ramiro Funes Mori and Tyias Browning; even if they did experience their difficulties.

Speaking to Everton's official website following the game, Martinez paid tribute to his young defenders for the way they stepped up and performed as a core who haven't played together very often.

“In any other squad that has got five major players from the back-four missing, you would find it difficult to find a way perform,” Martinez said.

“It’s incredible how our squad can cope. We have youngsters ready to perform and step in and that was a really pleasing aspect."

With the Merseyside derby next up for Everton this weekend, the comeback win at the Hawthorns is made all the more sweeter, and likely to ensure that Goodison Park is at its most raucous when their arch-rivals cross Stanley Park.

Nothing but a win will do for Brendan Rodgers' team, if they plan on leap-frogging their neighbours in the table this weekend. Meanwhile, three points for the Toffees could well take them into a Champions League position, depending on results elsewhere.